Introduction:
Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins, loved for its mild flavor and adaptability. Whether grilled, roasted, or fried, chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. But when planning a meal, you might ask yourself, “What sides go well with chicken?”
In this article, we’ll explore a range of sides that complement chicken perfectly, from wholesome grains to vibrant vegetables and everything in between.
Why the Right Sides Matter
When deciding what sides go well with chicken, it’s essential to consider balance. Sides enhance the flavor, texture, and nutritional value of the meal. For example:
- Flavor Balance: A roasted chicken may pair best with tangy or citrusy sides, while grilled chicken benefits from smoky or spicy accompaniments.
- Textural Variety: Creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp salad can add contrast to the tenderness of chicken.
- Nutritional Completeness: Adding vegetables, grains, or legumes creates a well-rounded meal packed with nutrients.
Now let’s dive into the best sides that complement chicken in any preparation style.
1. Classic Comfort Sides for Chicken
For a hearty and satisfying meal, classic sides are a foolproof choice. These options are timeless and easy to prepare:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes are a go-to side that pairs well with roasted or grilled chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice with herbs, nuts, or raisins adds texture and subtle flavors that complement chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A rich and cheesy option that works wonderfully with crispy fried chicken or baked chicken thighs.
2. Fresh Vegetable Sides That Go Well with Chicken
Vegetables are an excellent choice for anyone wondering what sides go well with chicken. They add color, crunch, and vital nutrients to the plate:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and zucchini roasted with olive oil and spices bring out natural sweetness and pair beautifully with chicken.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon make a refreshing side for chicken dishes with bold flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Smoky asparagus spears are a perfect match for grilled chicken or chicken skewers.
3. Wholesome Grain Sides to Pair with Chicken
Grains provide a hearty base for meals featuring chicken and make the dish more filling. Popular grain sides include:
- Quinoa Salad: Tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette, quinoa salad is a refreshing side for baked chicken.
- Brown Rice: Nutty brown rice pairs well with stews or chicken in savory sauces.
- Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous mixed with parsley, mint, and citrus zest is a delightful pairing for spiced or grilled chicken.
4. Salads That Complement Chicken
Salads are a lighter option, perfect for balancing richer chicken dishes. Some standout salad ideas include:
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a tangy dressing pair wonderfully with grilled or roasted chicken.
- Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese works perfectly with herb-seasoned chicken.
- Spinach and Strawberry Salad: A refreshing blend of spinach, strawberries, and nuts adds a sweet contrast to savory chicken dishes.
Pro Tip: Add chicken directly to the salad for a one-dish meal.
5. Bread and Starchy Sides for Chicken
Bread and starchy dishes are ideal for soaking up sauces and gravies. They’re also great for making the meal more indulgent. Try these ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread complements baked chicken or chicken parmesan perfectly.
- Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread pairs well with southern-style fried chicken.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: With their natural sweetness, baked sweet potatoes bring balance to spicy or savory chicken dishes.
6. Creative Sides for Chicken to Elevate Your Meal
If you’re looking for something unique when thinking what sides go well with chicken, consider these creative options:
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with seasoned rice or couscous are both decorative and delicious.
- Charred Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and spices creates a zesty pairing for grilled chicken.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a fun alternative to traditional fries, perfect with fried chicken.
FAQs About Chicken Side Dishes
1. What are good sides with chicken?
Chicken is a versatile protein that pairs well with a variety of sides, from classic comfort foods to light, refreshing options. The key to choosing good sides for chicken lies in complementing the flavor of the dish. Here are some excellent side dishes to serve with chicken:
Classic Starches
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, mashed potatoes are a timeless side for chicken. They work especially well with roasted or baked chicken dishes, soaking up gravy or sauces perfectly.
- Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned with herbs and spices, rice pilaf adds flavor without overpowering the chicken. It’s also easy to customize with ingredients like almonds, raisins, or sautéed vegetables.
Vegetable Options
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted in olive oil brings out natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Simple yet elegant, these greens balance the meal while adding a crunch.
Lighter Sides
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing is a great choice for a lighter complement to chicken.
- Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with parsley, cherry tomatoes, and lemon juice provides a refreshing twist.
By combining one starch and one vegetable, you can create a balanced and satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with chicken.
2. What pairs well with chicken breast?
Chicken breast is lean, mild in flavor, and incredibly versatile. The right sides can elevate this simple protein into a well-rounded meal. Here’s what works best with chicken breast:
Creamy Sides
- Macaroni and Cheese: The richness of mac and cheese contrasts beautifully with the lightness of chicken breast. This is especially ideal for baked or grilled chicken.
- Creamed Spinach: Velvety spinach cooked with a hint of garlic adds depth and richness to chicken breast dishes.
Hearty Vegetables
- Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus complements the subtle taste of chicken breast, making it perfect for summer meals.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until crispy. Their earthy flavor pairs well with the simplicity of chicken breast.
Wholesome Grains
- Quinoa with Herbs: Light and fluffy, quinoa adds texture and nutrients, especially when mixed with fresh herbs and a splash of citrus.
- Brown Rice: Nutty and hearty, brown rice is a classic side that balances grilled or roasted chicken breast.
With chicken breast’s adaptability, you can mix and match sides based on the seasoning and cooking style of the chicken.
3. What is the most popular side dish?
Among the many options available, mashed potatoes hold the crown as one of the most popular side dishes. They’re creamy, comforting, and complement a wide variety of main courses, including chicken. Here’s why mashed potatoes are so well-loved:
Versatility
Mashed potatoes can be flavored to suit almost any dish. Add garlic, cheese, or herbs to customize them for roasted or grilled chicken.
Ease of Preparation
With just a few simple ingredients—potatoes, butter, milk, and seasoning—this side is quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Benefits
Potatoes are rich in potassium and can be made healthier by using olive oil or yogurt instead of butter and cream.
Other popular contenders include rice pilaf, Caesar salad, and roasted vegetables. While tastes vary, mashed potatoes remain a universal favorite that never disappoints.
4. What’s a good side for fried chicken?
Fried chicken, with its crispy coating and juicy interior, calls for sides that balance its richness while enhancing its flavor. Here are some excellent sides for fried chicken:
Classic Southern Favorites
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the crispy texture of fried chicken. The crunch and acidity make it a staple pairing.
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet and crumbly, cornbread complements the savory flavors of fried chicken perfectly.
Comforting Starches
- Mashed Potatoes with Gravy: This classic combination is always a hit, offering creamy and savory elements to round out the meal.
- Potato Wedges: Baked or fried, potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that mirrors the crispiness of fried chicken.
Refreshing Vegetables
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar and herbs provides a refreshing break from the richness of fried chicken.
- Steamed Green Beans: A simple yet nutritious side, green beans add color and balance to your plate.
These sides bring out the best in fried chicken, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet well-rounded.
5. What can be eaten with chicken?
Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be paired with nearly any type of side dish, making it a staple in cuisines around the world. Here are some categories and examples of what can be eaten with chicken:
Vegetables
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, onions, and broccoli adds color and nutrients to chicken dishes.
- Roasted Cauliflower: With its nutty flavor and crisp edges, roasted cauliflower pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken.
Grains
- Risotto: Creamy and rich, risotto is a perfect pairing for chicken cooked in savory sauces.
- Farro Salad: Nutty farro mixed with cherry tomatoes and a light dressing provides a hearty yet refreshing side.
Breads
- Flatbreads or Tortillas: Use flatbreads to create wraps with grilled chicken and fresh vegetables.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are a comforting side for almost any chicken preparation.
From fresh greens to hearty grains, there’s virtually no limit to what can be eaten with chicken, making it a great choice for diverse meal plans.
6. What pairs well with grilled chicken?
Grilled chicken, with its smoky, charred flavor, pairs wonderfully with fresh, vibrant sides. Here are some of the best options:
Fresh Salads
- Caprese Salad: A combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is a simple yet elegant pairing for grilled chicken.
- Arugula and Pear Salad: Peppery arugula combined with sweet pears and a light vinaigrette creates a refreshing complement to smoky grilled chicken.
Grilled Vegetables
- Grilled Zucchini and Squash: The caramelized edges of these vegetables match the smoky notes of the chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter or olive oil pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
Grains and Starches
- Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous with fresh parsley and lemon juice balances the smokiness of grilled chicken.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and tender, baked sweet potatoes provide a natural contrast to the charred flavors of grilled chicken.
Grilled chicken’s versatility makes it easy to pair with almost any side, but fresh and lightly prepared dishes enhance its smoky profile the most.
Conclusion: The Perfect Pairings for Chicken
When deciding what sides go well with chicken, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer classic options like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, or creative pairings like quinoa salads and stuffed bell peppers, the right sides can elevate any chicken dish.
Experiment with these ideas to create balanced, flavorful meals that satisfy your cravings and suit any occasion. The next time you’re planning a chicken dinner, you’ll have the perfect sides to complete the meal.